Drug Store Beauty Booty

I've been really trying to pinch my pennies (I am thinking a fabulous vacation somewhere abroad is so in need) and start utilizing drug store beauty products.  At half the cost, I really can't be too disappointed if they turn out to be a dud (and there have been a few). 

Whenever I think of the Shick Intuition Razors I automatically think of the commercial and start singing Jewel's Intuition (Album Version).  I will say when I first saw the commercial, I thought who would ever use that big bulky razor?  Turns out the answer was me!  I received a free sample and tried it out to find that it works really well and removes the requirement for shave cream at all.  Perfect for vacations, house-sitting, the boyfriends place, or even home. 

Only negative thing is the cost for 3 refills is almost $20...not sure how much you are actually saving...but it is indeed the perfect travel companion razor. 

A gal at my work has very fair skin at work like me and always has the prettiest glow.  I finally just asked what product she used, and it turns out Neutrogena Healthy Skin Glow Sheers helps her achieve this look (I think her being in her mid 20's doesn't hurt either). 

As a devoted user of Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer I was hesitant to try it out, but seeing as the tube was under $15, I was easily swayed.  While I did not end up with the same glow as Megan, I did end up with a tinted moisturizer that provides decent coverage and a built in SPF of 30.  I am quite happy with this product and while I am not sure it will replace Laura Mercier it has provided a great alternative when money is tight.

I ran out of my eye moisturizer recently and set out to purchase a new one.  Eye creams can get very pricey (even at the drug store) so it was essential I found one that I could use both day and night and focused on moisturizing (anything additional was a bonus). 

I came across the Olay Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream and felt it fit my needs best.  That was until I saw the CVS version right next to it for $3 less.  I will admit I didn't expect much from this eye cream, but I have to say that I am really pleased with just about everything from this jar.  A little goes a long way and it is very moisturizing and silky.  I use it day and night and it may be my imagination, but I think there has been a slight improvement in my general eye area.

I tried the Almay One Coat Dial-Up Mascara after reading a great review on blog (which blog has escaped me right now).  I am always game for a mascara that promises full volume and this one seemed especially great since I could decide how full I wanted that volume to be. 

Turns out it is a decent mascara but I am not loving the plastic bristle brush and tend to go right for level 3 which often has me wiping off the excess on the side of the tube.  I am happy with the coverage but will not be purchasing this tube again.  If you like those plastic style brushes, I would recommend trying this one out.  If you like Dior Show, skip it!

Call me stupid, but when I saw the commercial and magazine ad for the L'OREAL Studio Secrets One Sweep Eyeshadow I was totally sold.  Loved the colors and the idea that someone did all the work for me and all I had to do was swipe the brush across my eyes and voila!  Such a time saver! 

Only it didn't work like that at all.  Not even a little.  This product is a total FAIL.  Luckily I can still use the shadows individually and try to achieve a similar look but, please take my advice and save the $10 this shadow is going to cost you.  Just go buy the individual shadows that will last longer and you will inevitably be happier with. 

Do you have any great drug store beauty items that I need to try?  Do you love any of the products above or had better luck with the one sweep?